Kayali Races in 5,000-Meter Run at NCAA Regionals

Nihal Kayali. (photo by Tim O'Dowd)

May 25, 2013

NEW HAVEN, Conn.-This Saturday, graduated senior Nihal Kayali faced off against competitors from the east region at the NCAA Regional meet. Though Kayali did not qualify to continue on to the semi final round in Eugene, Ore., she can return home with her head held high after a productive season, and one in which she discovered her talent for longer races.

Kayali finished 16th in her heat and 29th overall, running a time of 16:43.21. Only the top five finishers from each of two heats, followed by the next two best performers, advanced to the semifinal round of competition.

Her performance follows that of sophomore Kira Garry's, who competed on Friday in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. Both athletes have been participants in the NCAA Regionals previously, with Kayali advancing the furthest—to the semifinals—in the 1,500-meter run during her sophomore year. As a standout member of the team, Kayali served as cross country captain this past season, and consistently contributed the team's overall athletic standing.